Tripura CM Dr. Saha emphasized the media’s vital role in democracy during a media workshop at Agartala Press Club, highlighting press freedom, accountability, and transparency in governance while urging responsible journalism and ethical digital conduct across platforms.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha reaffirmed the press’s indispensable role in sustaining democracy, urging those in positions of power to remain transparent and responsible. “A vibrant democracy depends on the active functioning of both the judiciary and the media,” he declared while inaugurating a three-day Media Workshop-cum-Orientation Programme at the Agartala Press Club on Tuesday.
The event, jointly organized by the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department and the Agartala Press Club, gathered 356 registered media professionals from across Tripura, representing print, digital, photo, and broadcast platforms. The workshop aims to strengthen journalistic capacity and reinforce ethical reporting standards amid the fast-changing media landscape.
Media as a Pillar of Accountability
Dr. Saha highlighted that the freedom of the press, enshrined in Article 19(1) of the Indian Constitution, is the lifeblood of democracy, even if not explicitly counted among its foundational pillars. “When power tilts, it is the press that restores equilibrium,” he said, stressing the media’s watchdog role in keeping governance transparent.
Reflecting on his personal association with the Agartala Press Club, Dr. Saha recalled his early interactions with its president Pranab Sarkar, acknowledging journalism’s power to shape public perception and national consciousness. “My connection with the media is old and enduring,” he remarked, adding that he continues to read and analyze press coverage to understand the pulse of the people.
Concern Over India’s Press Freedom Ranking
Dr. Saha expressed concern over India’s low position in the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, describing it as a “disturbing signal” that calls for introspection from all stakeholders—government, media, and civil society alike.“Freedom of the press is not a privilege—it is a responsibility that safeguards every other right,” he asserted.
Condemning past attacks on journalists in Tripura, the Chief Minister reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward violence against media professionals. “Even when jurisdictional limits exist, I have pursued justice relentlessly. Delays must not become denials,” he said. His remarks drew appreciation from journalists present, many of whom have long demanded stronger protections for reporters in the field.
Ensuring Transparency and Responsible Governance
The Chief Minister shared that he personally monitors daily press clippings and directs his office to send them to all district officials every fortnight. “These reviews are followed by virtual meetings with District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to ensure that governance remains accountable and people-centric,” Dr. Saha revealed.
He further emphasized that a strong, responsible press bridges the communication gap between the government and citizens. “Media plays a vital role in connecting governance with grassroots realities. With their active participation, we can ensure more transparent, responsive, and accessible governance for the citizens of Tripura,” Dr. Saha noted in a social media post following the event.
Collaborative Approach to Media Development
Welcoming the initiative, Agartala Press Club president Pranab Sarkar said the media fraternity has witnessed a renewed focus on press development and training since Dr. Saha assumed office. “We need continuous skill upgradation through collaborations with institutions like IIMS and journalism universities,” Sarkar suggested. He also raised concerns over the misuse of social media, urging journalists and citizens alike to engage in responsible digital conduct.
ICA Secretary Apurba Roy reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring media welfare, describing the press as the “cornerstone of democratic engagement.” He also underlined the importance of ethical journalism and media literacy in an age dominated by digital misinformation.
ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee announced that the ongoing workshop would feature seven expert-led sessions covering a wide range of topics — including ethical journalism, conflict reporting, and the use of artificial intelligence in modern media practices. “We aim to provide a platform where media professionals can adapt to technological advancements while upholding core journalistic ethics,” Bhattacharjee said.
Strengthening Democracy through an Empowered Press
The three-day event symbolizes Tripura’s renewed commitment to nurturing a free, responsible, and progressive press. By recognizing journalists as partners in governance rather than adversaries, Dr. Saha’s message struck a chord across the state’s media landscape.
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As the Chief Minister aptly concluded, “The press is not just a mirror—it is the pulse of democracy.”
